Canada is one of the world’s most popular destinations for international students because of its internationally recognized universities, multicultural communities, high-quality education, and opportunities for graduates.

However, studying in Canada can be expensive. International students generally pay higher tuition than Canadian citizens and permanent residents, and they also need to budget for accommodation, food, transportation, health insurance, books, and other expenses.

The good news is that not every Canadian university has extremely high international tuition fees. Students who carefully compare universities, programs, cities, scholarships, and living costs can find relatively affordable options.

Among the universities worth researching are Memorial University of Newfoundland, Brandon University, University of Prince Edward Island, University of Regina, University of Saskatchewan, and other regional Canadian institutions.

Important: There is no single nationwide “cheapest university” because tuition depends heavily on the program, number of credits, degree level, and year of study. The figures below are therefore examples and should be verified on the university’s official website before applying.

Quick List: Affordable Canadian Universities for International Students

University	Province	Approximate International Tuition*
Memorial University of Newfoundland	Newfoundland and Labrador	From about $22,500 CAD/year for many new undergraduate students
Brandon University	Manitoba	Program/course dependent
University of Prince Edward Island	Prince Edward Island	Program dependent
University of Regina	Saskatchewan	Around $32,500 CAD average tuition & fees
University of Saskatchewan	Saskatchewan	From about $39,007 CAD for Arts
University of Manitoba	Manitoba	Program dependent
University of Winnipeg	Manitoba	Program dependent

*Figures are approximate examples, not universal tuition rates. Engineering, business, computer science, health programs, graduate programs, and other fields can cost substantially more.

1. Memorial University of Newfoundland

Location: St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador
Study levels: Undergraduate and graduate
Type: Public university

Memorial University of Newfoundland, commonly known as MUN, is one of the first universities international students should investigate when searching for relatively affordable Canadian university options.

For new undergraduate students beginning in fall 2026, Memorial lists $22,500 CAD in tuition for two semesters (10 courses) for international students at its St. John’s campus. The university separately lists required student fees and international health insurance.

That makes Memorial particularly interesting for students comparing the cost of a Canadian bachelor’s degree.

Why consider Memorial University?

Relatively low tuition compared with many Canadian universities
Public research university
Wide selection of programs
International student community
Undergraduate and graduate opportunities
Newfoundland and Labrador can have lower living costs than some of Canada’s largest cities

Popular areas of study

Students can explore programs in:

Business
Engineering
Computer science
Science
Arts
Education
Marine studies
Environmental sciences
Health-related fields

Cost of living

Tuition isn’t the only expense to consider. Memorial’s 2026–27 undergraduate information also lists residence and meal-plan costs separately. For example, some St. John’s residence options are listed at several thousand Canadian dollars per semester.

For international students looking for an affordable Canadian university, Memorial is therefore worth comparing on total annual cost, not tuition alone.

2. Brandon University

Location: Brandon, Manitoba
Study levels: Undergraduate and graduate
Type: Public university

Brandon University is another institution frequently considered by students looking for affordable study options in Canada.

The university itself describes its tuition rates as among the most affordable in the country and provides separate international undergraduate tuition tables. Tuition is course-based, meaning the amount depends on the courses and number of credits taken.

For 2026–27, Brandon University publishes separate international tuition information through its registration and financial-services pages.

Why choose Brandon University?

Smaller university environment
Manitoba location
Undergraduate and graduate programs
Course-based tuition structure
Potentially lower living costs than Canada’s largest metropolitan areas

Programs to consider

Brandon offers programs in areas such as:

Business
Computer science
Arts
Science
Education
Music
Nursing
Health studies

Students should calculate the exact tuition for their intended program because international fees differ by course and faculty.

3. University of Prince Edward Island

Location: Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island
Study levels: Undergraduate and graduate
Type: Public university

The University of Prince Edward Island (UPEI) is another Canadian university worth researching when affordability is a priority.

UPEI publishes its official 2026–27 tuition and fee information and provides a tuition calculator that allows students to select their faculty, international status, study load, and undergraduate or graduate level.

The university’s 2026–27 calendar confirms that international students are subject to an additional international student fee alongside regular tuition.

Why consider UPEI?

Public university
Smaller-campus environment
Undergraduate and graduate programs
Variety of academic disciplines
Canadian Atlantic location
Official tuition calculator makes it easier to estimate program costs

Popular areas

Students can investigate:

Business
Computer science
Engineering
Science
Arts
Education
Veterinary-related studies
Health and life sciences

As with other Canadian universities, some professional programs can be significantly more expensive than standard undergraduate programs.

4. University of Regina

Location: Regina, Saskatchewan
Study levels: Undergraduate and graduate
Type: Public university

The University of Regina is another option for students looking for a Canadian university outside the country’s most expensive major metropolitan areas.

For 2026–27, the university’s international student information gives an example of approximately $32,500 CAD for tuition and fees for an international undergraduate student taking 10 classes/30 credit hours. The university notes that tuition varies by faculty.

The university also announced changes to its 2026–27 international tuition structure, including an increase in the undergraduate international tuition multiplier.

Why consider the University of Regina?

Public university
Variety of undergraduate programs
Multiple graduate programs
Saskatchewan location
Scholarships and financial support opportunities
Lower-cost housing possibilities compared with some major Canadian cities

Popular programs

International students can consider:

Business
Computer science
Engineering
Education
Arts
Science
Nursing
Social sciences

5. University of Saskatchewan

Location: Saskatoon, Saskatchewan
Study levels: Undergraduate and graduate
Type: Public research university

The University of Saskatchewan is a major Canadian research university and can be another option for international students comparing tuition.

The cost depends strongly on the program.

For 2026–27, the university estimates first-year international undergraduate tuition of approximately:

Arts: $39,007 CAD
Education: $39,156 CAD
Science: $40,894 CAD
Agriculture and Bioresources: $41,964 CAD
Business: $48,932 CAD
Engineering: $59,383 CAD

These are tuition estimates for a typical full course load and do not represent the cost of every program.

Why consider USask?

Large research university
Broad range of academic programs
Strong research opportunities
Extensive student services
Programs across science, business, agriculture, engineering and humanities

For budget-conscious students, it is particularly important to compare program-specific tuition, rather than assuming every degree costs the same.

6. University of Manitoba

Location: Winnipeg, Manitoba
Study levels: Undergraduate and graduate
Type: Public university

The University of Manitoba is another university international students should include in an affordability comparison.

Winnipeg can offer a different cost profile from cities such as Toronto or Vancouver, although actual living expenses depend on accommodation, lifestyle, transportation, and other factors.

Students can investigate programs across:

Business
Engineering
Computer science
Arts
Science
Agriculture
Health sciences
Education

Because international tuition varies considerably by program, applicants should use the university’s current tuition calculator or fee schedule to calculate their expected costs.

7. University of Winnipeg

Location: Winnipeg, Manitoba
Study levels: Primarily undergraduate and graduate
Type: Public university

The University of Winnipeg is another institution worth considering for international students who want to study in Manitoba.

The university offers programs in areas such as:

Business and economics
Computer science
Arts
Science
Kinesiology
Environmental studies
Education
Social sciences

Its location in Winnipeg can also make it an interesting alternative for students who want to avoid the potentially higher living costs associated with Canada’s largest urban centres.

What Is the Cheapest University in Canada for International Students?

There isn’t a universal answer because international tuition varies by program and academic level.

For example, Memorial University’s 2026–27 published figure for a new international undergraduate student at the St. John’s campus is $22,500 CAD for two semesters and 10 courses, while the University of Saskatchewan’s 2026–27 estimate for international Arts students is $39,007 CAD.

This illustrates why students should compare the actual degree program rather than relying on a university-wide average.

Cheapest Canadian Universities for International Undergraduate Students

If you are planning a bachelor’s degree, start by comparing:

Memorial University of Newfoundland
Brandon University
University of Prince Edward Island
University of Regina
University of Manitoba
University of Winnipeg
University of Saskatchewan

But don’t compare tuition alone.

A university with slightly higher tuition can sometimes have lower accommodation and transportation costs, potentially changing the overall annual budget.

Cheapest Canadian Universities for Master’s Students

Graduate tuition works differently from undergraduate tuition.

Depending on the university and program, master’s students may pay:

Per credit
Per term
Per year
Program-specific tuition

Research-based master’s students may also have access to:

Scholarships
Graduate assistantships
Research assistantships
Teaching assistantships
Faculty funding
External scholarships

If your primary goal is affordability, research-based graduate programs can therefore be worth investigating separately from professional master’s degrees.

How Much Money Do You Need to Study in Canada?

Your total budget usually includes:

Tuition

This is normally the largest academic expense.

Accommodation

You may live:

On campus
In a shared apartment
In private accommodation
With a host family

Food

Food costs vary significantly according to your lifestyle and whether you cook at home.

Transportation

Students in larger cities may rely on public transportation, while students in smaller communities may have different transportation requirements.

Health insurance

International students generally need health coverage, and the exact arrangements differ by province and institution.

Books and supplies

Some programs require expensive equipment, laboratory materials, software or specialized textbooks.

Personal expenses

You should also budget for:

Mobile phone
Internet
Clothing
Entertainment
Winter clothing
Travel
Emergency expenses

Tuition vs. Total Cost: What Should You Compare?

A common mistake is choosing a university solely because it has the lowest tuition.

Instead, calculate:

Total annual cost = Tuition + Student fees + Housing + Food + Transportation + Insurance + Books + Personal expenses

For example, the University of Regina currently estimates an international undergraduate student’s average annual tuition and fees at approximately $32,500 CAD, with additional estimated costs for books, housing, food and other living expenses bringing its example total to about $47,000 CAD.

This demonstrates why the cheapest tuition does not necessarily equal the cheapest overall education.

How to Reduce the Cost of Studying in Canada

1. Choose a Less Expensive City

Toronto and Vancouver are popular destinations, but students should also investigate smaller cities and provinces.

Housing can have a major effect on your total budget.

2. Compare Programs Carefully

At the same university, one program may cost considerably more than another.

For example, University of Saskatchewan’s 2026–27 estimates range from about $39,000 for Arts to more than $59,000 for Engineering for international students.

3. Apply for Scholarships

Search for:

University entrance scholarships
International student awards
Merit scholarships
Departmental scholarships
Government scholarships
External scholarships

4. Consider On-Campus Employment

Eligible international students may be able to work under Canadian immigration rules.

However, students should never build their entire study budget around expected employment income. Your primary funding plan should be sufficient to support your education and living expenses.

5. Compare Housing Options

Shared accommodation can sometimes reduce living costs compared with renting an entire apartment.

Always research the local rental market before choosing a university.

Are Canadian Universities Cheap for International Students?

Canada is not generally considered a low-cost study destination compared with every country in the world.

However, some Canadian universities and regions can be more affordable than others.

Students should also consider the value of:

Canadian qualifications
Program quality
Co-op opportunities
Research opportunities
Scholarships
Graduate employment opportunities
Location
Living expenses

The goal should be to find a realistic total budget, not simply the lowest advertised tuition number.

How to Choose an Affordable University in Canada

Before applying, compare these eight factors:

1. Tuition

Find the exact international tuition for your program.

2. Mandatory fees

Check student, health, technology, recreation and other mandatory charges.

3. Housing

Look at both university accommodation and private rentals.

4. Scholarships

Determine whether international students qualify.

5. Program quality

A low-cost degree is not useful if it doesn’t provide the academic preparation you need.

6. Location

Consider transportation, climate, housing and employment opportunities.

7. Co-op and internships

A co-op program may provide valuable Canadian work experience and practical training where available.

8. Career goals

Choose the university based on where you want your degree to take you.

Tips for International Students Applying to Canada

Start preparing early.

You may need:

Passport
Academic transcripts
Degree certificates
English-language test results
Statement of purpose
Recommendation letters
Financial documents
CV/resume
Portfolio for certain programs

Admission requirements vary by university and program.

Most importantly, use the official university website for current tuition, admission requirements and application deadlines.

Final Thoughts

Canada offers international students many excellent study opportunities, but affordability requires careful research.

Memorial University of Newfoundland stands out in current 2026–27 published undergraduate tuition information, with $22,500 CAD listed for new international students taking 10 courses over two semesters at the St. John’s campus.

Other universities worth comparing include Brandon University, the University of Prince Edward Island, the University of Regina, the University of Manitoba, the University of Winnipeg and the University of Saskatchewan.

The most important point is that there is no single tuition figure that applies to all international students. Your actual cost depends on your degree, university, course load, housing, city and lifestyle.

Before making a final decision, calculate your expected four-year or total program cost, not just your first-year tuition.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Cheapest Universities in Canada

1. What is the cheapest university in Canada for international students?

Memorial University of Newfoundland is one of the first universities to investigate. For new international undergraduate students at the St. John’s campus, Memorial lists $22,500 CAD for tuition for two semesters and 10 courses in 2026–27.

However, the cheapest option for you depends on your program and living expenses.

2. How much is the cheapest university in Canada for international students?

Some relatively affordable Canadian universities can have international undergraduate tuition in the low-to-mid CAD $20,000s, while other programs can cost $40,000–$60,000 or more per year.

Program-specific fees must be checked before applying.

3. Which Canadian university has the lowest tuition?

Memorial University is one of the strongest options to investigate because its published 2026–27 tuition for new international undergraduate students at St. John’s is $22,500 for two semesters and 10 courses.

4. Is Memorial University cheap for international students?

Compared with many Canadian universities, its published undergraduate tuition can be relatively affordable. However, students must also budget for housing, food, insurance, student fees and other expenses.

5. Is Brandon University affordable for international students?

Brandon University describes its tuition rates as among the most affordable in Canada and publishes specific international tuition tables. Actual costs depend on the student’s program and course load.

6. Can I study in Canada for less than $20,000 per year?

For most international students, finding a full university degree with total annual costs below $20,000 CAD would be difficult. Tuition alone can approach or exceed that amount at many institutions, and living expenses are additional.

Scholarships can substantially reduce the amount a student personally pays.

7. Which province is cheapest for international students?

There is no single province that is cheapest for every student. Newfoundland and Labrador, Manitoba, Saskatchewan and Prince Edward Island are worth comparing, particularly when tuition and housing are considered together.

8. Is Canada cheaper than the USA for international students?

It depends on the university, program, scholarship and city. Some Canadian universities have comparatively moderate tuition, but living costs vary considerably in both countries.

Students should compare specific universities rather than comparing Canada and the United States as a whole.

9. Can international students get scholarships in Canada?

Yes. Canadian universities offer scholarships and awards for international students, although eligibility and funding levels vary.

Some scholarships are automatic based on admission, while others require separate applications.

10. Can international students work while studying in Canada?

International students who meet the applicable Canadian immigration requirements may be allowed to work while studying. Rules can change, so students should check the current requirements with the Government of Canada before relying on employment income.

11. Which Canadian university is cheapest for a bachelor’s degree?

Memorial University, Brandon University, UPEI, University of Regina and other regional universities are worth comparing for bachelor’s programs.

The exact ranking changes depending on the subject.

12. Which Canadian universities are affordable for master’s degrees?

Students should investigate universities such as Memorial University, Brandon University, University of Manitoba, University of Regina and other institutions offering funded or lower-cost graduate programs.

Research-based master’s degrees can also provide funding opportunities that are not available for every professional program.

13. Is $30,000 enough to study in Canada for one year?

It depends on the university, program and city. At some universities, tuition alone can consume most of that amount. At others, tuition may be lower, but housing and living expenses must still be added.

Students should create a complete annual budget before applying.

14. What is the total cost of studying in Canada for international students?

A realistic total can vary enormously. Tuition, accommodation, food, insurance, transportation and personal expenses all contribute to the final amount.

For example, the University of Regina’s 2026–27 example budget is approximately $47,000 CAD for tuition, fees, books, housing and food for an international undergraduate student.

15. Which Canadian university is cheapest for international students without IELTS?

IELTS requirements are determined by individual universities and programs. Some institutions may accept other English-language tests or alternative proof of English proficiency.

Students should check the specific admission requirements rather than relying on a general “no IELTS” claim.

16. Can I study in Canada with a scholarship?

Yes. International students can apply for university scholarships, government scholarships and external awards. Scholarships may cover tuition, living expenses, or only part of the total cost.

17. Which Canadian universities are best for international students on a budget?

Rather than choosing solely by reputation, compare tuition, housing, scholarships, program quality and career opportunities. Universities such as Memorial University, Brandon University, UPEI and University of Regina are useful starting points for a budget comparison.

18. What is the most important thing to check before applying?

Check the official tuition and fee schedule for your exact program and academic year. Tuition can differ dramatically between programs, as demonstrated by the University of Saskatchewan’s 2026–27 international undergraduate estimates.

19. Are these tuition fees guaranteed for the entire degree?

No. Universities can change tuition and fees in future academic years. The figures above are based on current published information and should be treated as planning estimates.

20. How can I find the cheapest university in Canada for my specific degree?

Search for your exact program at several universities and compare:

Tuition + mandatory fees + housing + food + transportation + insurance − scholarships.

This gives you a much more accurate picture than comparing tuition alone.